Zhang Dejiang (R), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, shakes hands with Pakistani President Mamnoon Hussain during their meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Feb. 19, 2014. (Xinhua/Pang Xinglei)

Zhang, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), commended the traditional friendship between China and Pakistan, adding that the two sides need to cherish and develop it.

He said the two sides need to enrich their strategic cooperative partnership and upgrade bilateral cooperation to a higher level.

He noted that the NPC has always underscored friendly cooperation with the Pakistani senate and national assembly and is willing to further strengthen engagement at all levels.

Hussain said Pakistan is ready to enhance communication with China's legislative body and promote bilateral cooperation.